By nearly all accounts the Cowboys have done a great job so far this offseason. They have managed to fill several of the most glaring areas of need. But there is still quite a long way to go if the Cowboys want to go from a non-playoff team to a Super Bowl contender.
Let's start on the defensive line. So far the Cowboys have done essentially nothing to improve the most important part of the defense. Sure, they gave Anthony Spencer the franchise tag but all that did was guarantee that the pass rush won't be worse than last year. But, outside of Demarcus Ware, the pass rush was nearly non-existent last year. Bringing Spencer back helps maintain status quo, but changes are needed if we expect to see improvement. The Cowboys can still make a bargain free agency signing or two to help shore up the defensive line and outside linebacker depth. But it seems more likely that they intend to pick defensive line/outside linebacker either the first or second round of the draft or both.
At safety the Cowboys did sign Brodney Pool to replace Abe Elam. But that is a minor upgrade at most. The Cowboys have been trying for far too long to find viable starting safeties. With Gerald Sensabaugh locked up long term at one spot it leaves the other position in flux. Depending on how the draft plays out it might turn out that Pool and Barry Church will share time while Sensabaugh plays full time. It is frustrating to see the same position handcuff the Cowboys defense year after year with no long term solution on the horizon. Maybe Barry Church is the answer but, if he were going to be an impact player, we probably would have seen some flashes of that by now.
Wide receiver depth has become a big concern now that Laurent Robinson has left for Jacksonville. There are some young players on the roster with potential but it is scary to think that one of those guys could be forced to step into a starting role early in the season with the injury history of Dez Bryant and Miles Austin. The Cowboys need to find a solid veteran in free agency who can man the #3 spot early in the season while either one of the young players on the roster or a draft pick can get worked into the offense. I'd like to see Dwayne Harris be the answer at the #3 receiver but he obviously didn't show enough during practice last year to warrant much playing time. Maybe a real offseason will do him some good.
The good news is that the Cowboys don't have nearly as many positions of need as they did heading into the offseason. They are set at middle linebacker with the signing of Dan Connor. And they have shored up the middle of the offensive line by signing Mackenzy Bernardeau and Nate Livings. I'm not sure that both guys are starters, but at least the Cowboys have gotten younger and bigger in the middle of the line. Now if David Arkin or Bill Nagy can improve over the offseason there might be some real depth on the offensive line for the first time in a long time.
Fullback seems to now be a position of strength with Lawrence Vickers on board to lead block for Demarco Murray and Felix Jones. I loved what Tony Fiametta brought to the table last season but he couldn't stay healthy. And Vickers is a much nastier lead blocker than Fiametta was. It is exciting to think what a healthy Demarco Murray might do with a big fullback and a real offensive line.
Heading into the draft I'd like to see the Cowboys get a defensive end and/or outside linebacker either in the first or second round, a safety in the first or second round, another cornerback, a wide receiver, and more defensive line/outside linebacker depth. At least the Cowboys won't be entering the draft with a bunch of glaring needs. I think defensive line is still a big need position but they have their bases covered everywhere else.
Showing posts with label Demarco Murray. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Demarco Murray. Show all posts
Monday, April 2, 2012
Friday, December 2, 2011
Avoiding the Trap
I've already mentioned how this feels like a trap game for the Cowboys. So the key this week will be avoiding the pitfalls that usually result in losing a game like this one. The Cowboys are the better team. I think that is clear. But if they come out lackadaisical or sloppy they can easily lose to the Cardinals. The Cowboys are good enough to play a bad game and win.So what do the Cowboys need to do to beat the Cardinals? I think the #1 priority needs to be to get out to a fast start. If the Cowboys can put 10 or 14 points on the board on their first few drives and keep the Cardinals off the scoreboard I think this game can be a cake walk. But the longer the Cowboys let the Cardinals hang around the more you can expect a tough battle that won't be won until late in the game.
Tony Romo needs to protect the ball. The Cowboys don't need a banner performance from Romo. It would be nice if he can hit a few big plays but the Cowboys can beat the Cardinals with a relatively conservative game plan if they don't give the Cardinals any easy points off of turnovers. DeMarco Murray will help the Cowboys control the time of possession and prevent 3 and outs. The Cowboys just need to protect the ball on offense.
Patrick Peterson needs to be a non-factor in the return game. Sounds simple enough but certain things have to take place to keep him out of the game. The offense needs to sustain drives. Even drives out to the Cowboys 40 or the 50 yard line allow McBriar to boom the ball inside the 10 yard line and prevent any returns. If the Cowboys do have to punt from deep in their own territory it is vitally important that McBriar gets good hang time and pins Peterson along the sidelines. Again, easier said than done but at least McBriar is getting healthy again.
The defense needs to keep pressure in Kevin Kolb's face. It looks like Kolb will start this game after missing the last few weeks with several injuries to his foot. Kolb doesn't worry me after what I have seen from him this season and against the Cowboys at the end of last season. If the Cowboys can pressure Kolb he will be inaccurate and he'll turn the ball over. The Cardinals have allowed the 3rd most sacks in the league so getting pressure shouldn't be a problem.
The run defense can't let Beanie Wells get going. He is the X-factor that can open everything up for the Cardinal offense. Larry Fitzgerald can be contained by pressuring Kolb but it will take a good performance by the linebackers and defensive line to make sure Wells doesn't force the defense to back off of pressuring the quarterback and focus on stopping the run.
The Cowboys need to play with passion and intensity. There is a good chance that the Cowboys will be playing for the NFC East title next week against the Giants if they can win this game. But they can't get ahead of themselves. I know Garrett has been preaching the one game at a time approach to the season and this is the type of game that will show us if the players have been listening.
I am very nervous heading into this game. The last two times the Cowboys have visited Arizona strange things have happened that have caused the Cowboys to lose. I think this game will be different but it won't be any easy win. I'm picking the Cowboys to win 29-20 but I think the game will be close heading into the 4th quarter.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
It Feels Like a Trap Game
I don't have a lot to say here. I'm mainly just throwing this thought out there. With the Cowboys coming off of 4 straight victories and with the first game with the Giants coming up next week this is the type of game that defines what a trap game is. Jason Garrett's one day at a time mantra will be put to the test this week.
Can the Cowboys come out focused and execute efficiently against the Cardinals? A quick start by the Cowboys would probably result is an easy win over the Cardinals because they won't have much desire to fight back from a deficit. But if the Cowboys come out playing flat or sloppy the Cardinals will gain confidence and make it a tough game.
I hope my feeling is wrong about this week. But all I am hearing about is how the Cowboys are in first place and that this should be an easy win. This is the type of game that Bill Parcells would have hung mouse traps from the ceiling for. I hope Jason Garrett finds a way to keep his guys focused on the Cardinals before moving on to the Giants.
Can the Cowboys come out focused and execute efficiently against the Cardinals? A quick start by the Cowboys would probably result is an easy win over the Cardinals because they won't have much desire to fight back from a deficit. But if the Cowboys come out playing flat or sloppy the Cardinals will gain confidence and make it a tough game.
I hope my feeling is wrong about this week. But all I am hearing about is how the Cowboys are in first place and that this should be an easy win. This is the type of game that Bill Parcells would have hung mouse traps from the ceiling for. I hope Jason Garrett finds a way to keep his guys focused on the Cardinals before moving on to the Giants.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
3 In A Row
For the second time this season the Cowboys won a game against the Redskins that felt a little like stealing. Dan Bailey squeaked his game winner just inside the right upright to win the game in overtime this time around. The Redskins had their shot to win in just a few minutes earlier in overtime but Graham Gano missed wide right by about 2 feet.
This game could have easily resulted in a tough loss. But thanks to a missed field goal they come away with a win and a shot at a first place in the NFC East if the Giants lose to the Eagles. So the Cowboys come out of the game at 6-4 and on a bit of a roll.
There was a lot to be happy about in the game. But there was a lot to be concerned about as well. Considering the game was a win you would think there would be more good than bad but really not so much.
Tony Romo played another good game. He wasn't perfect. But I'll take 3 TD's and no interceptions any day of the week. And he made a few plays during the game that only Tony Romo makes. The touchdown to Laurent Robinson that tied the score at 17 was an improv play by Romo. And the touchdown to Witten for 59 yards and a 24-17 lead was another improv special. And finally, the big gain to Dez Bryant to set up the game winning field goal was all Romo.
Dan Bailey just continues to make field goals. I thought he had missed the game winner and I wasn't convinced he actually made the kick until after FOX came back from commercial and showed the replay. He has been a great addition to the team. I wonder how many games the Cowboys have won that they would have lost if Buehler was still the kicker.
The defense played very well for about a quarter and a half. And then the wheels fell off. They allowed Rex Grossman to look like a pro bowl quarterback from the 2nd quarter through the end of the game. There wasn't enough pressure on Grossman and the secondary allowed a bunch of no name receivers to rack up big play after big play. I'm concerned about the play of the defense because I expected them to be rounding into shape at this point in the season. Hopefully this game was just a blip on the radar.
The running game for the Cowboys struggled all game long. Jason Garrett stayed committed to running the ball even though the Redskins kept DeMarco Murray in check all game long. At least the Cowboys were able to convert on 3rd and short by running to extend one of their drives. I don't know if Tony Fiammetta's absence hurt the running game that much or if the Redskins just played that well against the run.
There was good and bad with Dez Bryant. He made a great play on his first quarter touchdown and another great play to get open in overtime. But he disappeared for a big stretch of the game again. Until his route running improves I don't think we'll see a full 4 quarter of dominating play from him.
Jason Witten is a beast. The Redskins doubled him all game long. But he still came up with 3 receptions for 85 yards and, of course, the huge scoring play in the 4th quarter. He is just a great player.
The Cowboys nearly lost the game in large part due to bad punting and bad punt coverage. Matt McBriar shanked a punt to set up one of the Redskin scores. And a big punt return set up another score. Joe DeCamillis needs to get his punt team going. And the Cowboys kick and punt returns were awful as usual. I hope we see Felix Jones on kick returns against Miami because Akwasi Owusu-Ansah just can't get it done.
What originally looked like it would be an easy Thanksgiving day game against Miami is now looking like it will be a tough test. Miami has won three straight coming into the game and they are playing good football. The Cowboys will have to play better all around if they expect to make it a happy Thanksgiving for Cowboys fans.
This game could have easily resulted in a tough loss. But thanks to a missed field goal they come away with a win and a shot at a first place in the NFC East if the Giants lose to the Eagles. So the Cowboys come out of the game at 6-4 and on a bit of a roll.
There was a lot to be happy about in the game. But there was a lot to be concerned about as well. Considering the game was a win you would think there would be more good than bad but really not so much.
Tony Romo played another good game. He wasn't perfect. But I'll take 3 TD's and no interceptions any day of the week. And he made a few plays during the game that only Tony Romo makes. The touchdown to Laurent Robinson that tied the score at 17 was an improv play by Romo. And the touchdown to Witten for 59 yards and a 24-17 lead was another improv special. And finally, the big gain to Dez Bryant to set up the game winning field goal was all Romo.
Dan Bailey just continues to make field goals. I thought he had missed the game winner and I wasn't convinced he actually made the kick until after FOX came back from commercial and showed the replay. He has been a great addition to the team. I wonder how many games the Cowboys have won that they would have lost if Buehler was still the kicker.
The defense played very well for about a quarter and a half. And then the wheels fell off. They allowed Rex Grossman to look like a pro bowl quarterback from the 2nd quarter through the end of the game. There wasn't enough pressure on Grossman and the secondary allowed a bunch of no name receivers to rack up big play after big play. I'm concerned about the play of the defense because I expected them to be rounding into shape at this point in the season. Hopefully this game was just a blip on the radar.
The running game for the Cowboys struggled all game long. Jason Garrett stayed committed to running the ball even though the Redskins kept DeMarco Murray in check all game long. At least the Cowboys were able to convert on 3rd and short by running to extend one of their drives. I don't know if Tony Fiammetta's absence hurt the running game that much or if the Redskins just played that well against the run.
There was good and bad with Dez Bryant. He made a great play on his first quarter touchdown and another great play to get open in overtime. But he disappeared for a big stretch of the game again. Until his route running improves I don't think we'll see a full 4 quarter of dominating play from him.
Jason Witten is a beast. The Redskins doubled him all game long. But he still came up with 3 receptions for 85 yards and, of course, the huge scoring play in the 4th quarter. He is just a great player.
The Cowboys nearly lost the game in large part due to bad punting and bad punt coverage. Matt McBriar shanked a punt to set up one of the Redskin scores. And a big punt return set up another score. Joe DeCamillis needs to get his punt team going. And the Cowboys kick and punt returns were awful as usual. I hope we see Felix Jones on kick returns against Miami because Akwasi Owusu-Ansah just can't get it done.
What originally looked like it would be an easy Thanksgiving day game against Miami is now looking like it will be a tough test. Miami has won three straight coming into the game and they are playing good football. The Cowboys will have to play better all around if they expect to make it a happy Thanksgiving for Cowboys fans.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Get Ready for Another Wild One Against the Redskins
I don’t know what it is about the rivalry the Cowboys have with the Redskins. But for some reason the games are decided by some sort of wacky play on a regular basis. You don’t have to look back more than a few games to see what I mean. Last year the Cowboys appeared to win and then lost on the final play of the game when Alex Barron was called for a holding penalty that nullified the game winning score.
This year Dan Bailey hit six field goals to provide all 18 of the Cowboys points as Tony Romo made a miraculous play on 3rd and 18 late in the game to get the Cowboys in position for the game winner.
You can go back not only for a few years but for a few decades and you’ll see similar games that have been played between the two teams almost every season. So why would this game be any different?
On paper it would appear that the Cowboys and Redskins are heading in opposite directions. The Cowboys are just starting to get on a roll and are beginning to look like a playoff team. The Redskins have lost 5 straight and appear headed for a top 5 draft pick. But those types of things don’t usually matter in the Cowboys-Redskins series.
The year the Cowboys went 1-15 with first year coach Jimmy Johnson guess who they beat for that lone victory. That’s right, the Washington Redskins. No one expected it that day and no one expects the Redskins to be able to win this week.
I’m not saying all of this to predict a loss by the Cowboys this week. I just think we need to realize that another 44-7 win is probably not in order this week. The Cowboys should win, but it will likely be much closer than that if history tells us anything.
The Cowboys will obviously try to keep their running game rolling this week. But with Tony Fiammetta out battling a mystery illness the running game will lose one of its biggest assets. The good news is that Felix Jones will return and will likely give a nice #2 option to the running attack.
The Redskins have a good defense despite what their record shows. The majority of the losses the team has had are due to the completely inept play they have had at the quarterback position. Tony Romo and the rest of the offense won’t have to be special to win the game this week. But they need to protect the ball so that the Redskins have to work for any points they get.
The defense will be challenged to stop the run yet again this week. You know that Mike Shanahan wants to be able to hide Rex Grossman with his game plan. That means a heavy dose of the running game. If the Cowboys can shut down the run then Grossman will be forced to throw the ball. The Redskins have no receivers who can provide a threat and Fred Davis at tight end is the only real playmaker on the offensive side of the ball.
It is hard to envision a scenario where the Cowboys lose this game barring a catastrophic injury to Romo or a Romo meltdown. But, as I say that, all I have to do is picture a few of the crazy things that have gone on in this rivalry over the last few years to realize that it only takes a few odd plays here or there and suddenly the Cowboys will be on the wrong end of the scoreboard.
I think the Cowboys will find a way to overcome any odd moments that come up in this game. I’m not expecting a blowout this week. But I wasn’t expecting one last week either. The Redskins just can’t score enough points to keep up with the Cowboys offense. I’m picking the Cowboys to win 24-12.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Good & Bad from the Seahawk Game
Rather than just a recap of the game I thought I would try something a little different this time. I know there were a lot of things to dislike about the game yesterday, but there were also a lot of things to like. Let's take a look at things that should give up hope and things that should make us worry.
The Good: DeMarco Murray is starting to look like the real deal. It is now three straight weeks that Murray has looked like a legitimate starting running back. It will be interesting to see how many touches Felix Jones gets when he gets healthy. Hopefully Garrett will keep Murray as the starter and use Felix as the change up.
The Bad: The running game still isn't punching the ball into the end zone from close range. I don't know if Jason Garrett just doesn't trust the offensive line, but the Cowboys didn't make much of an effort to power the ball into the end zone from close range. Until they start running the ball in they red zone offense will continue to struggle.
The Good: Tony Romo didn't turn the ball over at all. By protecting the ball the Seahawks were always forced to drive the length of the field to score. That helps the defense prevent touchdowns more than any scheme Rob Ryan can draw up.
The Bad: Tony Romo is still playing too safe. It feels like Romo is still gun shy after what happened in the Detroit game a few weeks back. Romo is definitely protecting the ball but he seems to be lacking what makes him great right now. Romo is at his best when he is in gunslinger mode. He is a very average quarterback when he plays the bus driver role.
The Good: Dan Bailey continues to nail his field goals right down the middle. He is having the best season by a Cowboys kicker since Nick Folk's rookie season.
The Bad: The return game for the Cowboys is awful. Kevin Ogletree is just a very bad kick returner. And Dez Bryant made a horrible decision to field a punt inside the Cowboys five yard line.
The Good: The defense came up with 3 turnovers. The interceptions in the second half helped turn the tide in the Cowboys favor.
The Bad: The run defense was bad again. Last week seemed like a blip on the radar when McCoy went crazy for the Eagles. But Marshawn Lynch made it back to back weeks that the run defense has struggled. Run defense is becoming a major concern.
The Good: The offense had great balance with both Romo and Murray coming up with good games.
The Bad: Jason Garrett is still struggling to find a way to get the offense in the end zone consistently. I don't know if the offensive line is just handcuffing him in critical situations, but it is frustrating to see some of the questionable calls in short yardage situations.
The Good: Anthony Spencer finally woke up. He came up with a sack and a huge blocked field goal. Now he needs to show up next week again.
The Bad: Keith Brooking was terrible starting in place of Sean Lee. Brooking is so bad it is embarrassing. It seems like he should have retired 2 years ago. He is always a step or two late, he gets run over, and he seems lost in pass coverage. Lee can't get back on the field fast enough for me.
In the end a win is a win. It wasn't pretty but the Cowboys just need to start getting on a roll before it is too late. Buffalo is coming off of an embarrassing loss and will present a tough challenge next week. If the Cowboys can win that game we might see the Cowboys make a run to 8-4 against a very soft schedule. With the Giants playing with a 2 game lead in the NFC East getting to 8-4 is going to be needed to get back in the playoff race.
The Good: DeMarco Murray is starting to look like the real deal. It is now three straight weeks that Murray has looked like a legitimate starting running back. It will be interesting to see how many touches Felix Jones gets when he gets healthy. Hopefully Garrett will keep Murray as the starter and use Felix as the change up.
The Bad: The running game still isn't punching the ball into the end zone from close range. I don't know if Jason Garrett just doesn't trust the offensive line, but the Cowboys didn't make much of an effort to power the ball into the end zone from close range. Until they start running the ball in they red zone offense will continue to struggle.
The Good: Tony Romo didn't turn the ball over at all. By protecting the ball the Seahawks were always forced to drive the length of the field to score. That helps the defense prevent touchdowns more than any scheme Rob Ryan can draw up.
The Bad: Tony Romo is still playing too safe. It feels like Romo is still gun shy after what happened in the Detroit game a few weeks back. Romo is definitely protecting the ball but he seems to be lacking what makes him great right now. Romo is at his best when he is in gunslinger mode. He is a very average quarterback when he plays the bus driver role.
The Good: Dan Bailey continues to nail his field goals right down the middle. He is having the best season by a Cowboys kicker since Nick Folk's rookie season.
The Bad: The return game for the Cowboys is awful. Kevin Ogletree is just a very bad kick returner. And Dez Bryant made a horrible decision to field a punt inside the Cowboys five yard line.
The Good: The defense came up with 3 turnovers. The interceptions in the second half helped turn the tide in the Cowboys favor.
The Bad: The run defense was bad again. Last week seemed like a blip on the radar when McCoy went crazy for the Eagles. But Marshawn Lynch made it back to back weeks that the run defense has struggled. Run defense is becoming a major concern.
The Good: The offense had great balance with both Romo and Murray coming up with good games.
The Bad: Jason Garrett is still struggling to find a way to get the offense in the end zone consistently. I don't know if the offensive line is just handcuffing him in critical situations, but it is frustrating to see some of the questionable calls in short yardage situations.
The Good: Anthony Spencer finally woke up. He came up with a sack and a huge blocked field goal. Now he needs to show up next week again.
The Bad: Keith Brooking was terrible starting in place of Sean Lee. Brooking is so bad it is embarrassing. It seems like he should have retired 2 years ago. He is always a step or two late, he gets run over, and he seems lost in pass coverage. Lee can't get back on the field fast enough for me.
In the end a win is a win. It wasn't pretty but the Cowboys just need to start getting on a roll before it is too late. Buffalo is coming off of an embarrassing loss and will present a tough challenge next week. If the Cowboys can win that game we might see the Cowboys make a run to 8-4 against a very soft schedule. With the Giants playing with a 2 game lead in the NFC East getting to 8-4 is going to be needed to get back in the playoff race.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Time to Start a Streak
Let's go ahead and say this ahead of time. This is a big game. There is always a debate after the fact whether Tony Romo has played well in big games. Although this is just the 7th game of the season it feels like this game could be a turning point for the Dallas Cowboys. Win and the Cowboys could be at the start of a big winning streak. Lose and we could be looking at a team that will be up and down all season long.
It is hard to know exactly what to expect heading into the game. The Cowboys have been very good on defense this season. But they have been inconsistent on offense. The Eagles have been bad defensively and inconsistent offensively. But Andy Reid is 12-0 with his team coming off of a bye.
I don't think I am going out on a limb thinking this is going to be another close game. The recent history of the Cowboys tells us that we should expect to see a close finish. The Cowboys have been horribly inconsistent in close games this season. The Eagles have been terrible in close games. But it is hard to believe that the Eagles aren't going to get their season going in the right direction at some point.
I think the Cowboys are going to win this game. And I'm not just going on a gut feeling. The Cowboys are good at everything that has given the Eagles trouble this season. The Cowboys do a great job confusing the opposing quarterbacks with the multiple defensive looks. Michael Vick struggles to decipher the opposing defensive scheme. That is a big advantage for the Cowboys.
The Cowboys have turned a corner with their running game. In both games that the Cowboys played with Tony Fiammetta at fullback they have been very good running the ball. He is playing this week. The Eagles have had a very difficult time stopping the run. With DeMarco Murray providing a more physical running style I think the Cowboys will be able to control the time of possession and get first downs consistently.
The Eagles have the number one running offense in the NFL. The Cowboys have the #1 running defense in the NFL. Something has to give here. Remember that the primary reason that the Eagles are rated so high with their running game is due to their quarterback. I think we are going to see Michael Vick get knocked out of this game with another concussion. He has been hit so much this year that there is real concern that Vick isn't going to finish the season. I don't think he'll be out for the season after this game but I'll be surprised if he finishes the game.
The Eagles' kicker has been wildly inconsistent kicking field goals. The Cowboys kicker has made 16 consecutive field goals. Again, advantage Cowboys.
Even if this game somehow turns into a shootout I think the Cowboys have plenty of offensive fire power to keep up with the potentially explosive Eagles offense. But do the Eagles have the type of team that can win a physical, hard-hitting battle? I don't think so. The Cowboys can win the game in many more ways than the Eagles can.
I'm picking the Cowboys to win in a close game. The difference will be the defense of the Cowboys and the reliability of Dan Bailey. In a close game you have to be able to come away with points every time you get an opportunity. Dallas will get their points. The Eagles will not get points from their kicker every time. And the biggest moment in the game will come when Vick gets knocked out of the game. I'm picking the Cowboys to win 27-21. I might be fooling myself but it feels like the Cowboys are at the beginning of a big winning streak.
It is hard to know exactly what to expect heading into the game. The Cowboys have been very good on defense this season. But they have been inconsistent on offense. The Eagles have been bad defensively and inconsistent offensively. But Andy Reid is 12-0 with his team coming off of a bye.
I don't think I am going out on a limb thinking this is going to be another close game. The recent history of the Cowboys tells us that we should expect to see a close finish. The Cowboys have been horribly inconsistent in close games this season. The Eagles have been terrible in close games. But it is hard to believe that the Eagles aren't going to get their season going in the right direction at some point.
I think the Cowboys are going to win this game. And I'm not just going on a gut feeling. The Cowboys are good at everything that has given the Eagles trouble this season. The Cowboys do a great job confusing the opposing quarterbacks with the multiple defensive looks. Michael Vick struggles to decipher the opposing defensive scheme. That is a big advantage for the Cowboys.
The Cowboys have turned a corner with their running game. In both games that the Cowboys played with Tony Fiammetta at fullback they have been very good running the ball. He is playing this week. The Eagles have had a very difficult time stopping the run. With DeMarco Murray providing a more physical running style I think the Cowboys will be able to control the time of possession and get first downs consistently.
The Eagles have the number one running offense in the NFL. The Cowboys have the #1 running defense in the NFL. Something has to give here. Remember that the primary reason that the Eagles are rated so high with their running game is due to their quarterback. I think we are going to see Michael Vick get knocked out of this game with another concussion. He has been hit so much this year that there is real concern that Vick isn't going to finish the season. I don't think he'll be out for the season after this game but I'll be surprised if he finishes the game.
The Eagles' kicker has been wildly inconsistent kicking field goals. The Cowboys kicker has made 16 consecutive field goals. Again, advantage Cowboys.
Even if this game somehow turns into a shootout I think the Cowboys have plenty of offensive fire power to keep up with the potentially explosive Eagles offense. But do the Eagles have the type of team that can win a physical, hard-hitting battle? I don't think so. The Cowboys can win the game in many more ways than the Eagles can.
I'm picking the Cowboys to win in a close game. The difference will be the defense of the Cowboys and the reliability of Dan Bailey. In a close game you have to be able to come away with points every time you get an opportunity. Dallas will get their points. The Eagles will not get points from their kicker every time. And the biggest moment in the game will come when Vick gets knocked out of the game. I'm picking the Cowboys to win 27-21. I might be fooling myself but it feels like the Cowboys are at the beginning of a big winning streak.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Domination
Finally, the Dallas Cowboys found a way to win a game without waiting until the last two minutes to decide the outcome. It was total domination basically from start to finish. The Rams were completely overmatched by the Cowboys in every way. And DeMarco Murray provided a surprising spark to the running game.
The game was well played across the board for the Cowboys. Obviously Murray gets the headlines and rightfully so after going for 253 yards on 25 carries. I'm not ready to say he is the next great Dallas running back but he will at least be a big part of the offense for the rest of the season. Maybe Felix Jones will return to his role as change up back now that we see how effective Murray is between the tackles.
Tony Romo played a solid game but he really didn't have to do much thanks to the dominating running game the offense had all day. Romo threw for 2 TD's and never threw a pass that was the least bit dangerous. And he smartly took a couple of sacks rather than forcing the ball down the field when he was under duress.
The defense kept Steven Jackson bottled up for the most part. Jackson did break off one big run and scored a TD but he managed only 70 yards on 18 carries. The Rams passing game didn't do much of anything all game long. And Mike Jenkins ran a better route than Brandon Lloyd to come up with a nice interception. Abram Elam also forced a fumble and recovered a fumble to stop a potential scoring drive by the Rams.
Dan Bailey has now made 15 consecutive field goals. I was ready to cut him after he missed a short kick against the 49ers but he has been money ever since. I'm assuming the Cowboys are waiting for David Buehler to get healthy so they can avoid an injury settlement when he is cut.
The good news for the Cowboys is that they looked like a quality team. Good teams handle poor teams with ease. The Cowboys did that. Of course that doesn't mean the Cowboys are playoff bound. It just means that they have the potential to be a playoff team this season. Now they need to start handling quality teams with a little more ease.
Next week is going to be a big test of just where the Cowboys are right now. The Eagles are only 2-4 but they have their backs against the wall. The Cowboys can essentially bury the Eagles' season but you can bet they will get the best shot the Eagles have. Next Sunday will be a big game without a doubt.
The game was well played across the board for the Cowboys. Obviously Murray gets the headlines and rightfully so after going for 253 yards on 25 carries. I'm not ready to say he is the next great Dallas running back but he will at least be a big part of the offense for the rest of the season. Maybe Felix Jones will return to his role as change up back now that we see how effective Murray is between the tackles.
Tony Romo played a solid game but he really didn't have to do much thanks to the dominating running game the offense had all day. Romo threw for 2 TD's and never threw a pass that was the least bit dangerous. And he smartly took a couple of sacks rather than forcing the ball down the field when he was under duress.
The defense kept Steven Jackson bottled up for the most part. Jackson did break off one big run and scored a TD but he managed only 70 yards on 18 carries. The Rams passing game didn't do much of anything all game long. And Mike Jenkins ran a better route than Brandon Lloyd to come up with a nice interception. Abram Elam also forced a fumble and recovered a fumble to stop a potential scoring drive by the Rams.
Dan Bailey has now made 15 consecutive field goals. I was ready to cut him after he missed a short kick against the 49ers but he has been money ever since. I'm assuming the Cowboys are waiting for David Buehler to get healthy so they can avoid an injury settlement when he is cut.
The good news for the Cowboys is that they looked like a quality team. Good teams handle poor teams with ease. The Cowboys did that. Of course that doesn't mean the Cowboys are playoff bound. It just means that they have the potential to be a playoff team this season. Now they need to start handling quality teams with a little more ease.
Next week is going to be a big test of just where the Cowboys are right now. The Eagles are only 2-4 but they have their backs against the wall. The Cowboys can essentially bury the Eagles' season but you can bet they will get the best shot the Eagles have. Next Sunday will be a big game without a doubt.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
The Depth Chart Is Changing Day to Day
With the surprising news that Shane Graham was signed to battle for the kicking job a loud message was sent to David Buehler and Dan Bailey. It is pretty clear that the coaches aren't comfortable with what they have at kicker right now. And with Graham the team would have a proven kicker with over 10 years of NFL experience. Bringing in veteran kickers hasn't worked out very well for the Cowboys in recent years but I have to admit that I like the idea of Graham right now if he can out kick the other two guys over the next couple of weeks. I'm tired of wondering whether every extra point and field goal is going to go through the uprights. Maybe Graham can change that.
The depth chart at running back changed dramatically today with the return of Tashard Choice and DeMarco Murray to practice. It will be very interesting to see how things play out at running back over the next two weeks. Murray has a great chance to make the final roster purely based on the fact that the Cowboys drafted him this season. As long as he can stay healthy heading into the season he'll make the final roster. Tashard Choice is going to have to battle with Lonyae Miller and Phillip Tanner for the third spot. Choice's lack of special teams value is going to work against him. It is possible that the Cowboys will keep 4 running backs but unlikely. Choice has his work cut out for him.
Igor Olshansky has lost his starting spot and is now battling to make the final roster. If Olshansky isn't going to start it is hard to justify his $3.34 million cap hit. Working in Olshansky's favor is the groin strain that Marcus Spears suffered in the last preseason game. But the coaches seem pretty comfortable with Jason Hatcher and Sean Lissemore providing depth at defensive end. I'll be surprised if Olshansky isn't cut or traded in the next week or two.
Wide receiver depth remains an issue. While the top three seem set at this point there is a lot of uncertainty behind Miles Austin, Dez Bryant and Kevin Ogletree. Dwayne Harris played great in the first preseason game but was invisible in the second game. Jesse Holley is almost exclusively a special teams player and the Cowboys might not have the luxury of roster space to keep a specialist. Raymond Radway has great speed but is very raw and inexperienced. And Manny Johnson hasn't shown much to prove that he deserves to stick around. I still think the Cowboys might look at a bargain free agent to help provide depth.
On the offensive line the left guard spot is still up for grabs. David Arkin and Bill Nagy are locked in a battle for the starting spot while Montrae Holland recovers from a lower back strain. Nagy seems to have surged ahead in the fight but the next two preseason games will determine the winner. Either way the offensive line has become much younger and more agile heading into the season. You can see the difference when the Cowboys run screen plays because the lineman are doing a great job getting out in front of the ball carrier.
I'm very interested to see how things play out at inside linebacker now that Keith Brooking is finally practicing again. Lee looked good in the preseason game but was invisible in the second game. With the complex defense that Rob Ryan is calling I have to believe that Brooking has a lot to learn. I'd like to see Lee win the battle because he is much more athletic at this point in his career than Brooking will ever be again.
The depth chart at running back changed dramatically today with the return of Tashard Choice and DeMarco Murray to practice. It will be very interesting to see how things play out at running back over the next two weeks. Murray has a great chance to make the final roster purely based on the fact that the Cowboys drafted him this season. As long as he can stay healthy heading into the season he'll make the final roster. Tashard Choice is going to have to battle with Lonyae Miller and Phillip Tanner for the third spot. Choice's lack of special teams value is going to work against him. It is possible that the Cowboys will keep 4 running backs but unlikely. Choice has his work cut out for him.
Igor Olshansky has lost his starting spot and is now battling to make the final roster. If Olshansky isn't going to start it is hard to justify his $3.34 million cap hit. Working in Olshansky's favor is the groin strain that Marcus Spears suffered in the last preseason game. But the coaches seem pretty comfortable with Jason Hatcher and Sean Lissemore providing depth at defensive end. I'll be surprised if Olshansky isn't cut or traded in the next week or two.
Wide receiver depth remains an issue. While the top three seem set at this point there is a lot of uncertainty behind Miles Austin, Dez Bryant and Kevin Ogletree. Dwayne Harris played great in the first preseason game but was invisible in the second game. Jesse Holley is almost exclusively a special teams player and the Cowboys might not have the luxury of roster space to keep a specialist. Raymond Radway has great speed but is very raw and inexperienced. And Manny Johnson hasn't shown much to prove that he deserves to stick around. I still think the Cowboys might look at a bargain free agent to help provide depth.
On the offensive line the left guard spot is still up for grabs. David Arkin and Bill Nagy are locked in a battle for the starting spot while Montrae Holland recovers from a lower back strain. Nagy seems to have surged ahead in the fight but the next two preseason games will determine the winner. Either way the offensive line has become much younger and more agile heading into the season. You can see the difference when the Cowboys run screen plays because the lineman are doing a great job getting out in front of the ball carrier.
I'm very interested to see how things play out at inside linebacker now that Keith Brooking is finally practicing again. Lee looked good in the preseason game but was invisible in the second game. With the complex defense that Rob Ryan is calling I have to believe that Brooking has a lot to learn. I'd like to see Lee win the battle because he is much more athletic at this point in his career than Brooking will ever be again.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Cowboys Free Agency Plans Have Been Revealed
Thanks to the NFL lockout reversing the typical chain of events for the offseason the Cowboys had to scramble like every other team to develop a new plan. Now that the draft has been completed it has left some very apparent roster needs for the Cowboys whenever free agency finally does get under way.
The drafting of Tyron Smith seems to indicate that Marc Colombo may be done in Dallas. I have serious doubts that the Cowboys have any desire to keep Colombo around after picking a tackle with the #9 pick in the draft. You don't pick a top ten player to sit him on the bench. And I don't see Colombo being ok with restructuring his contract and riding the pine next year.
The DeMarco Murray signing probably signals the end of Marion Barber's career in Dallas. The Cowboys need three running backs and they currently have four on the roster. It would be hard to imagine Barber coming back for another year with his bloated contract and deteriorating skills.
Safety will be the #1 priority in free agency. Gerald Sensabaugh will be a free agent and the Cowboys have made it clear that they intend to move Alan Ball back to cornerback this year. I don't think Barry Church is ready to step into a starting role and there really isn't anyone else on the roster who could even be considered a potential starter next year. So the Cowboys will likely re-sign Sensabaugh and then target one of the top free agent safeties. With the money they'll free up by cutting Barber, Colombo and maybe a few other veterans they should have the money to go after a top tier safety.
Defensive end is the #2 priority in free agency. I didn't name this the #1 priority only because I believe the Cowboys plan to re-sign Jason Hatcher and Stephen Bowen. And if Marcus Spears tests the market in free agency he might find that Dallas might not be so bad after all. I think the Cowboys will bring back Hatcher and Bowen but hopefully they have a plan B in place in case they can't bring both guys back. By failing to draft a defensive end the Cowboys have back themselves into a corner at this position.
Sam Hurd has probably played his last down in Dallas. He was going to test the free agent market anyway, but now the Cowboys really have no reason to pursue him since they drafted Dwayne Harris out of East Carolina. He has return skills that will make him a valuable game day asset. So the wide receiver corp will probably be Miles Austin, Dez Bryant, Roy Williams, Kevin Ogletree and Dwayne Harris on game days.
Hopefully the ruling will come down this week that forces the NFL to get the league year started so the Cowboys can fill their roster holes. I think they did a solid job with the draft, but we won't know for a few years if it was good or bad. But at least they addressed the offensive line and did enough that it isn't inconceivable that they can address enough of their needs in free agency to be a contender in 2011.
The drafting of Tyron Smith seems to indicate that Marc Colombo may be done in Dallas. I have serious doubts that the Cowboys have any desire to keep Colombo around after picking a tackle with the #9 pick in the draft. You don't pick a top ten player to sit him on the bench. And I don't see Colombo being ok with restructuring his contract and riding the pine next year.
The DeMarco Murray signing probably signals the end of Marion Barber's career in Dallas. The Cowboys need three running backs and they currently have four on the roster. It would be hard to imagine Barber coming back for another year with his bloated contract and deteriorating skills.
Safety will be the #1 priority in free agency. Gerald Sensabaugh will be a free agent and the Cowboys have made it clear that they intend to move Alan Ball back to cornerback this year. I don't think Barry Church is ready to step into a starting role and there really isn't anyone else on the roster who could even be considered a potential starter next year. So the Cowboys will likely re-sign Sensabaugh and then target one of the top free agent safeties. With the money they'll free up by cutting Barber, Colombo and maybe a few other veterans they should have the money to go after a top tier safety.
Defensive end is the #2 priority in free agency. I didn't name this the #1 priority only because I believe the Cowboys plan to re-sign Jason Hatcher and Stephen Bowen. And if Marcus Spears tests the market in free agency he might find that Dallas might not be so bad after all. I think the Cowboys will bring back Hatcher and Bowen but hopefully they have a plan B in place in case they can't bring both guys back. By failing to draft a defensive end the Cowboys have back themselves into a corner at this position.
Sam Hurd has probably played his last down in Dallas. He was going to test the free agent market anyway, but now the Cowboys really have no reason to pursue him since they drafted Dwayne Harris out of East Carolina. He has return skills that will make him a valuable game day asset. So the wide receiver corp will probably be Miles Austin, Dez Bryant, Roy Williams, Kevin Ogletree and Dwayne Harris on game days.
Hopefully the ruling will come down this week that forces the NFL to get the league year started so the Cowboys can fill their roster holes. I think they did a solid job with the draft, but we won't know for a few years if it was good or bad. But at least they addressed the offensive line and did enough that it isn't inconceivable that they can address enough of their needs in free agency to be a contender in 2011.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Two More Solid Picks for the Cowboys in Rounds 2 & 3
The Cowboys are on their way to putting together their best draft since at least 2005 after two more solid picks in rounds 2 and 3. They aren't going flashy, but they are picking solid players who can step in a contribute immediately.
In round 2, the Cowboys picked Bruce Carter. He'll fit in nicely at inside linebacker. While the Cowboys may not need someone to step in immediately at middle linebacker with Bradie James, Keith Brooking, and Sean Lee already there the two starters are getting up there in age. Keith Brooking has one season left with the Cowboys if he even stays with the team. Bradie James is starting to slow down. So it makes perfect sense to find another heir apparent in the middle of the defense along with Sean Lee. Carter is an excellent athlete but he is recovering from a knee injury which is why the Cowboys were able to land such a talented player all the way in round 2. Assuming he gets back to full speed he could be a long term starter.
The end of Marion Barber's time in Dallas may have come when the Cowboys picked DeMarco Murray in the 3rd round. The Cowboys now have three running backs on the roster and you can bet that all three won't be back next year. With Barber's ridiculous contract I would bet he'll be the odd man out. DeMarco Murray will fit in nicely with Felix Jones and Tashard Choice. Choice will probably take over the short yardage/goal line role with Felix Jones starting. That makes DeMarco Murray the 3rd down/change up back. Murray is an excellent pass blocker and a great receiver out of the back field. I love the pick. Probably the best feature for Murray this season is his ability to return kicks. So the Cowboys can let Dez Bryant exclusively return punts and focus on wide receiver this year.
I'm waiting for the Cowboys to find some depth on the defensive line but I can't complain when they are not only addressing high need positions, but they are also filling the roster holes with players who can get on the field this year. I hope they continue finding guys who can help now and develop into starters down the road. Tyron Smith will most likely start this year. Carter and Murray both have the ability to become starters very soon.
In round 2, the Cowboys picked Bruce Carter. He'll fit in nicely at inside linebacker. While the Cowboys may not need someone to step in immediately at middle linebacker with Bradie James, Keith Brooking, and Sean Lee already there the two starters are getting up there in age. Keith Brooking has one season left with the Cowboys if he even stays with the team. Bradie James is starting to slow down. So it makes perfect sense to find another heir apparent in the middle of the defense along with Sean Lee. Carter is an excellent athlete but he is recovering from a knee injury which is why the Cowboys were able to land such a talented player all the way in round 2. Assuming he gets back to full speed he could be a long term starter.
The end of Marion Barber's time in Dallas may have come when the Cowboys picked DeMarco Murray in the 3rd round. The Cowboys now have three running backs on the roster and you can bet that all three won't be back next year. With Barber's ridiculous contract I would bet he'll be the odd man out. DeMarco Murray will fit in nicely with Felix Jones and Tashard Choice. Choice will probably take over the short yardage/goal line role with Felix Jones starting. That makes DeMarco Murray the 3rd down/change up back. Murray is an excellent pass blocker and a great receiver out of the back field. I love the pick. Probably the best feature for Murray this season is his ability to return kicks. So the Cowboys can let Dez Bryant exclusively return punts and focus on wide receiver this year.
I'm waiting for the Cowboys to find some depth on the defensive line but I can't complain when they are not only addressing high need positions, but they are also filling the roster holes with players who can get on the field this year. I hope they continue finding guys who can help now and develop into starters down the road. Tyron Smith will most likely start this year. Carter and Murray both have the ability to become starters very soon.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
